Marifé Hernández and her husband Joel Bell are considered excellent ambassadors for culture in New York City. Curiosity about the rest of the world and New York’s welcoming we are to the best of other continents, along with it’s own excellence, make it an international capital.”When I discover something wonderful, I want to share it, and I want all my friends to know about it, and I want everybody to go” said Marifé to fifty of her closest friends, gathered at her home on Thursday June 8th to learn of her newest endeavor, The International Circle of the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées.
“I discovered the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées when I was about eight or nine, because I was lucky enough to have a grandmother who took me to Paris every year and to this beautiful theater.” With this, she introduced the theater’s director general, Michel Franck, who explained, “ours is one of the most beautiful theaters in Paris. But what makes it special is intimacy; although it is relatively large, it always feels intimate, with all our seats no more than 30 meters from the stage. It is this atmosphere, a feeling of community, that makes us a family we hope you will join.”
Day 1: Arrival in Paris
- Participants arrive in Paris and check into their accommodations.
- Free time to explore the city or rest after the journey.
Day 2: Opening of the New Season
- Attend the opening performance of the new season at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées.
- Enjoy a concert featuring the Orchestra and Choir of La Scala de Milan and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.
Day 3: Private Entertainment
- Attend a private concert and cocktail event hosted by Comte Patrice de Laage de Meux in his hôtel particulier. It is an exclusive opportunity to enjoy music and mingle with fellow attendees.
Day 4: Culinary and Wine Experiences
- Experience a dinner hosted by Veronique Bich in her Paris apartment. This intimate setting allows for a unique dining experience and social interaction.
- Take a tour of the Laurent-Perrier Domain and its cellars in Tours-sur-Marne. Explore the vineyards, learn about the Champagne-making process, and indulge in some wine tasting.
Day 5: Chateau Visit
- Enjoy a lunch at Chateau de Louvois, a picturesque castle known for its architectural beauty and historical significance.
- Departure from Paris or continue exploring the city at your leisure.
Throughout the trip, participants will have the opportunity to engage with fellow members of the International Circle and immerse themselves in the vibrant cultural scene of Paris. It’s an itinerary that combines world-class music performances with private entertainment and gastronomic experiences, creating a memorable and enriching visit to the City of Light.
Michel Franck highlighted the rich artistic history and legacy associated with a particular location. He listed several renowned artists and performers who have been associated with this place. Here’s a breakdown of the mentioned artists:
- Stravinsky and Nijinsky: Referring to the composer Igor Stravinsky and the ballet dancer Vaslav Nijinsky, who collaborated on the groundbreaking ballets “The Rite of Spring” and “Petrushka” with Sergei Diaghilev’s Ballets Russes.
- Josephine Baker: A legendary American-born French entertainer, singer, and dancer who gained fame in the 1920s for her captivating performances and became an icon of the Jazz Age.
- Maria Callas: One of the greatest opera singers of the 20th century, renowned for her exceptional soprano voice and dramatic interpretations. Her farewell concert was a significant event in the world of opera.
- Bruno Walter, Rubenstein, Horowitz, Toscanini, Karajan, Ozawa, Boulez, Muti, William Christie: These are a collection of prominent conductors and musicians who have made significant contributions to classical music. Bruno Walter, Artur Rubinstein, Vladimir Horowitz, Arturo Toscanini, Herbert von Karajan, Seiji Ozawa, Pierre Boulez, Riccardo Muti, and William Christie are all highly regarded figures in the classical music world.
- Jacques Brel: A Belgian singer, songwriter, and actor who gained international acclaim for his chansons (French songs). His emotionally charged performances and poignant lyrics made him an influential figure in French music.
- Elton John: A British singer, songwriter, and pianist known for his flamboyant stage presence and hit songs across several decades. Elton John is considered one of the most successful and influential musicians in popular music history.
- Cecilia Bartoli: An Italian mezzo-soprano opera singer who has achieved worldwide recognition for her exceptional vocal skills and interpretation of Baroque music. She has been associated with the mentioned location and considers it her artistic home.
For more information on The International Circle of the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées kindly write: Julia Neugebauer at [email protected]
